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Omeprazole works better with regular intake because it needs time to build up in your body and suppress stomach acidity. If you take it sporadically, the effect will be weaker and less predictable. I'd recommend sticking to the prescribed treatment schedule - usually that means taking it at the same time, then you'll see more noticeable results. It's better to consult with a doctor first to pick the right dosage for your specific situation.
I agree with what was said above. I myself ran into this when my mom was suffering from heartburn - her doctor prescribed omeprazole for her to take regularly, not as needed. Omeprazole doesn't work like quick relief like antacids, which neutralize acid in a few minutes. It's a proton pump inhibitor that suppresses the actual production of acid in the stomach, and for that it needs time to build up and have a stable effect on the cells of the mucous membrane.
If you take it irregularly, it barely does anything. The effect usually starts showing up after a few days of regular use, and the maximum result might only come after 1-2 weeks of constant use. With irregular use you keep disrupting this process, and your acidity goes up and down all over the place. Plus omeprazole needs to be taken 30-40 minutes before eating, ideally at the same time each day.
If heartburn bothers you often - it's better to just take it as your doctor prescribed in a course. But if these are rare episodes, then for quick relief it's better to get something else, like a regular antacid. And save omeprazole for a regular course if your doctor prescribed it.
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